Actions speak louder than words

Over the past month, there has been a lot of debate about the way San Francisco 49ers Quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, has staged his protest against injustice in America. While discussing his reasons, for protesting, during his recent comments to ESPN, Mr. Kaepernick said “I think it’s become so blatantly obvious that athletes and people in general have to react.” Oh how they’ve reacted. Many former and current athletes have weighed in on the controversy. Everyone seems to have an opinion about how Mr. Kaepernick is kneeling during the playing of the national anthem before football games.

No matter what side of the fence a person is on, we all have to appreciate his willingness to take a stand on an unpopular subject. He’s doing what he feels he needs to do to help those who are voiceless. Whether you agree with him or not, we should appreciate his willingness to weather the storm of disapproval and potential financial loss to make a difference in the world. Viewing his actions from that perspective should help us reflect on what we’re doing in our own lives to make a difference. What little action or daily statement are we making on behalf of the voiceless?

Mr. Kaepernick is taking a chance on the national stage. The rest of us don’t need a big stage to make a difference. If you don’t agree with his cause, fret not, there are plenty of other causes where your voice can be used. Our actions don’t have to be grandiose. Our protest can be something as simple as buying ethical clothing or other small life style changes that support the voiceless. Complaining about someone who is taking an action is a waste of time. We need to either take action on our own, for a cause we believe in, or forever hold our peace. Change clothes, change lives!

About the author: When Walter is not writing for the “Change Clothes. Change Lives Blog,” he can be found studying in pursuit of an MBA, flying around Tampa’s airspace in a small Cessna, or dancing Argentine Tango at a local Milonga.